Sunday, September 12, 2010

High-Speed Differences - DSL, Cable Broadband and Satellite Broadband

If you are looking to have high-speed internet set up in your home or business, make sure you know what all your options are. Admittedly, it's hard to keep up with all the technological advances in internet connections over the last decade or so. So, let's refresh your memory by going over the three main high-speed connection types: DSL, cable broadband and satellite broadband. We will break down the pros and cons of each along the way.

DSL This connection is similar to the old school dial-up modem connections, in that they both use a phone line to transmit and receive information. However, DSL processes information at faster speeds than dial-up because it uses a higher, separated frequency of the phone line. Obviously, DSL is faster than a dial-up connection, but is typically considered the slowest of the three high-speed connections. DSL does not have to dial-up like its predecessor. It maintains a continuous connection. While there is no real advantage of DSL over cable broadband - other than, perhaps, cheaper price - it holds an advantage over satellite internet, in that it doesn't lose signal like satellite does in inclement weather. Lastly, the people who choose DSL over the faster cable do so because it often comes as a part of their phone service in a package deal.

Cable Broadband Cable broadband is similar to DSL because they are both transmitted over landlines, unlike satellite. The cable signal is separated from the television signal in the cable line, kind of like the separation of data between phone service and DSL. Cable broadband is considered by most experts to be the most efficient and fastest of the three mentioned here. It has a reliable constant connection and transmits information at almost instantaneous speeds. You can download a song in under a minute. Cable is sought after for its speeds, but many people have it simply because it comes in a package with their cable television.

Satellite Broadband While the first two types of connections have some similarities, satellite technology works quite differently. Like satellite TV, it uses satellites that orbit the Earth at low altitudes. These satellites transmit and receive broadband internet signals to and from dishes all across the planet. All that is required to receive signal is a satellite dish mounted above your home. Satellite is typically used by people who live in locations where high-speed landline connections are not provided, due to low population and small demand. While satellite's speeds are usually slower than those of cable, they are generally faster than those of DSL.

It's important to be informed of all your choices when purchasing an internet connection, especially since you will have to sign a contract. Remember that dial-up is not an option. While it may be dirt cheap, its snail-like speeds will end up driving you insane. Also, keep in mind that there are areas where DSL and cable broadband aren't available. If you live in one of those remote areas, satellite broadband is the only way to go.

If you live in one of those aforementioned rural areas, hughesnet internet may just be your best option. Or perhaps you can't find a good deal on other services in your area. hughs net offers low monthly rates and free installation.